A Q&A with Second-Year Political Science Graduate Student Warrington Sebree

Warrington Sebree
Second Year Graduate Student in the Department of Political Science,
Graduate Assistant in the African and African American Studies Program

In this conversation, Sebree talks about how being a graduate assistant for the African and African American Studies Program aligns with his passion for political science focused on racial identity politics, the amazing professors he’s had, his love of listening to and making music, and how the theme of college may be to “figure it out,” but building a strong network of friends and colleagues makes it a fantastic experience.

Q: Tell us a little about your academic passions, research and/or what you’re studying within the college. What excites you about this?

I am currently studying political science with a primary focus on domestic racial identity politics, Black politics, and critical race theory.

I also serve as the graduate assistant for the African and African American Studies Program, where we work to provide a holistic interdisciplinary education that cultivates a diverse environment where important cultural, political, and historical topics are discussed.

I am interested in looking at new political phenomena and influences that have not traditionally been regarded as political tools. For example, I look at the ways in which the evolution of media and its portrayal of race influences the American political institution.

This area excites me because it allows me to study what I relate to. It is my hope that my research will lead to creating a more accepting and inclusive society for those that have been historically marginalized.

Q: How long have you been at Fulbright College? What have you enjoyed most about your time here?

I have been a student of Fulbright College for five years now and I truly believe it is the best college at the university.

Aside from engaging with my colleagues in the classroom, the faculty and staff of the college are second to none. They challenge students by establishing a highly rigorous academic environment, they develop students’ critical thinking skills, and ultimately, they prepare students for whatever lies ahead of them.

These professors have been some of the most thoughtful and supportive people that I have ever met, and they truly do care about the success of their students.

Q: What has your favorite class been so far and why?

That is too hard! There are multiple classes that I loved because they advanced me academically in ways that I would not have been able to otherwise.

I can give you two, first Criminal Law with Dr. Shields. This class was incredible. Difficult because the material is new to most students, however Dr. Shields is such a great teacher, it makes it fun to struggle through the tough stuff.

Then, I would also recommend any class taught by Dr. Banton. Again, her classes will not be easy at all. Although I took an introductory level class with her, Dr. Banton is one of the most intelligent professors that is on our campus and you will learn in any class she teaches.

Honorable mention would be Administrative Law with Dr. Schreckhise, it may sound like a dry and boring topic, but that is how good Dr. Schreckhise is at making it interesting.

Q: What advice would you give to new students about to join the college?

Go talk to your professors. They have been in your shoes. I think that often times it seems taboo to go to office hours until something is wrong, but this is completely backwards.

A professor would be much more willing to help you if they know your name, have seen you go out of your way to put forth effort, and know a little bit about your story.

Do not be shy. As you progress, the hands you shake become increasingly important, and while you are in school, the hands you shake may be able to provide benefits to the grades you make!

Letters of recommendation, their connections, and most importantly, their guidance is so crucial, but you have to be willing to put yourself out there. If you say you are going to do something, do it.

Q: What do you like to do during your time outside of the university?

It is very important to engage with your colleagues in informal settings. This is where you all will be able to get to know each other and develop relationships that will last.

Hanging out with friends and colleagues is great because it allows me to step outside of academics but still have sharp people around me that will continue to make me a better version of myself and a more well-rounded version of myself.

Outside of that, I am a musician, so I enjoy listening to and making music. It is important to be creative and to always tap into that side of yourself.

Additionally, a sound body is just as important as a sound mind, so I enjoy going to the gym. I love the game of basketball and so when I can go to a Razorback basketball game, I go cheer on our team. I watch NBA ball, other college ball, and I love going to play basketball as well in the HPER.

Q: When do you anticipate graduating, and what’s up next on the horizon for you?

I am scheduled to graduate in the Spring of 2021 and am currently studying for the LSAT in anticipation of applying to and attending law school in the Fall of 2021.

Obtaining my master’s from the university has also piqued my interest in the field of political science though. So, I have not closed the door on the opportunity to get into a Ph.D. program and further my research.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add or let readers know?

The theme of college is “figure it out.”

There will be many times when it just becomes too difficult and you just don’t know what to do. In these times, cling to what you know in your heart is right, lean on those that have made themselves available to support you, and the most important thing is to try your best.

At the end of the day, if you can say that you did everything in your power to put yourself in a position to succeeded, the results will show that, and things will eventually work in your favor.

College is not easy, and a lot of the difficult aspects of college are out of the students’ control. During these hard times, if you take the initiative and give 110%, there will never be a regret or something to hang your head for in the event of failure.

But when you fall, get back up and figure out how you can come back better.